More than a century after the first Christmas tree was raised in the Banquet Hall at Biltmore House, very little has changed. Relying on newspaper descriptions and estate records, the design team accurately recreates the look of the Gilded Age Christmas that George and Edith Vanderbilt enjoyed when they welcomed their first guests in 1895.

A built-in hall tree in the mudroom of this newly built farmhouse features a low bench with cubbies perfect for storing boot trays lined with shoes. Simple coat hooks line the paneled wall, while a high shelf provides space for display or additional storage. The crisp white palette is punctuated by soft gray trim that updates and distinguishes the architecture.

Built-in storage creates a functional space for flat and hanging storage in this Martha's Vineyard mudroom. Metal piping and pale wood shelves blend to give the space a rustic-industrial vibe that flows with the rest of the modern farmhouse-style home. The peaked, beamed ceiling provides an open and airy feel.

The owners of this 1930s historic home in Phoenix, Arizona wanted to redesign their space to be fun, eclectic and durable. They needed storage solutions to help keep the family of five organized, so designers added built-in shelves and a built-in drop station to help with that. To add charm to the home, designers brought in trim to finish out the fireplace and the windows, while a brown leather sofa and other simple, fun furniture pieces help to make the space livable and inviting for parents and kids alike.

One of the most anticipated holiday traditions at Biltmore House is the annual tree raising. Hundreds of visitors gather to watch as a 40-person team carefully maneuvers the massive Christmas tree past priceless antiques and into position in the Banquet Hall.

Deck the halls and create a decorative detail that can be enjoyed year after year by transforming ordinary mini pinecones. Simply dip the edges of the pine cones into white tempera paint and allow to dry. Then string onto red twine and hang above the buffet, around the Christmas tree or on the mantel.

We love designer Barbara Westbrook of Westbrook Interiors' idea of placing wrapped gifts in shades of millennial pink and silver under this table in the Home for the Holidays entry hall. The display instantly sets a holiday tone and demonstrates how elegantly wrapped, color-coordinated wrapped gifts can be used as decor throughout the house — not simply beneath the tree.